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14 pages, 7314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stability Assessment of Gob Side Entry at the Steeply Inclined Mining Face

by Zhongcheng Qin, Yongle Liu, Feng Zhang and Nan Liu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 3244; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15063244 - 17 Mar 2025

Viewed by 222

Abstract

This study aims to comprehensively analyze the stability of rock mass around the gob side driving roadway in a significant inclined mining face. By considering the geological parameters and engineering conditions of specific cases, we carefully explored many factors affecting the stability of [...] Read more.

This study aims to comprehensively analyze the stability of rock mass around the gob side driving roadway in a significant inclined mining face. By considering the geological parameters and engineering conditions of specific cases, we carefully explored many factors affecting the stability of the surrounding rock mass, such as the mechanical properties of rocks, formation inclination, and the existence of goaf. Based on this, we construct a numerical model for analyzing the stability of the rock mass around the gob side driving roadway. Subsequently, we made a detailed investigation of the stress distribution and the characteristics of the plastic zone. In addition, through the analysis of the destruction mode and stress distribution characteristics of the rock mass, we establish the appropriate width of the coal pillar and thus provide a scientific basis for the formulation of support countermeasures; finally, the support countermeasures proposed in this study have achieved remarkable results in practical application and verify the feasibility and practicability of the research method. This support scheme ensures the stability of the gob side entry over its service life. It is hoped that this scheme can be promoted in similar projects to help maintain mine safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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19 pages, 5726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Ground Settlement of Close Buried Double-Line Shield Tunnels Under Different Excavation Conditions

by Zhiheng Jiang and Yuke Wang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 1936; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15041936 - 13 Feb 2025

Viewed by 486

Abstract

Construction-induced mutual disturbance exerts a substantial influence on the ground settlement of double-line tunnels, and the ground settlement of double-line tunnels differs under varying excavation conditions. This study deeply analyzes the ground subsidence of a near-buried double-line tunnel when excavating in a complex [...] Read more.

Construction-induced mutual disturbance exerts a substantial influence on the ground settlement of double-line tunnels, and the ground settlement of double-line tunnels differs under varying excavation conditions. This study deeply analyzes the ground subsidence of a near-buried double-line tunnel when excavating in a complex geological environment. This study provides a framework for the design and construction of double-line shield tunnels and makes up for an important gap in the existing research. The findings indicate that the construction of post-excavation tunnels leads to secondary disturbances in the soil, resulting in increased ground settlement. The influence of tunnel lateral spacing on ground subsidence is greater than that of longitudinal excavation spacing. The ground settlement of a double-line tunnel excavated concurrently exhibits an initial increase, subsequently reaching a stable state as excavation progresses. For double-line tunnels with different excavation intervals, the settlement curves exhibit three stages. The maximum horizontal deformation of double-line tunnels decreases with increasing tunnel space, and the horizontal deformation of continuously excavated double-line tunnels is greater than that of synchronously excavated double-line tunnels. The incorporation of the settlement ratio, S’, unveils a linear correlation between the settlement and the tunnel space. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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20 pages, 9598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Torsional Shear Deformation Characteristics of Segment Joints Under the Torque Induced by Tunnel Boring Machine Construction

by Jie Chen, Weijie Chen, Chaohui Deng, Runjian Deng, Mingqing Xiao and Dong Su

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15031104 - 22 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 928

Abstract

During the excavation process of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), the cutterhead exerts significant torque on the tunnel structure, which potentially causes torsional shear deformation at segment ring joints. Thus, examining the characteristics of torsional shear deformation and the shear-bearing performance of segment [...] Read more.

During the excavation process of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), the cutterhead exerts significant torque on the tunnel structure, which potentially causes torsional shear deformation at segment ring joints. Thus, examining the characteristics of torsional shear deformation and the shear-bearing performance of segment joints under construction torque is crucial for the design and safety of segment structures and the construction of TBM tunnels. To achieve this, a refined finite element model of the segment joints was developed to study their torsional shear resistance under varying axial forces and with or without mortise and tenon. Furthermore, the failure modes of bolts and the damage characteristics of segment concrete during torsional shear deformation are analyzed. The results show that the load-bearing process of torsional shear deformation in segment joints consists of three stages: development of the friction at the segment interface (Stage I), development of the bolt force (Stage II), and development of the mortise and tenon force (Stage III). It is noteworthy that axial force is the primary factor in enhancing the torsional shear resistance of the segmental joints. Moreover, as the torsional shear deformation increases, the contact and compression occur between the bolts and the segment bolt holes as well as between the mortise and tenon, leading to the yielding of the bolts and the failure of the concrete at the joints. Consequently, the segment concrete around the mortise and tenon and the bolt hole is prone to cracking and crushing. To prevent shear failure of the bolts, it is recommended that the rotational angle of segment be maintained at less than 0.045°. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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18 pages, 4800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Train-Induced Unsteady Airflow in a Metro Tunnel with a Ventilation Shaft

by Fei Wang, Xingsen He, Lin Xu, Shengzhong Zhao and Miaocheng Weng

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(20), 9177; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14209177 - 10 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1211

Abstract

To ensure only one train operates in each ventilation section within an extra-long tunnel, a ventilation shaft was typically installed to divide the entire tunnel into multiple sections. Given the crucial role of piston wind in the metro tunnel environment and ventilation, a [...] Read more.

To ensure only one train operates in each ventilation section within an extra-long tunnel, a ventilation shaft was typically installed to divide the entire tunnel into multiple sections. Given the crucial role of piston wind in the metro tunnel environment and ventilation, a deeper understanding of train-induced unsteady airflow in a metro tunnel with a ventilation shaft is desirable. This study uses the unsteady flow theory of the Bernoulli equation to mathematically model piston wind in metro tunnels both with and without ventilation shafts. The influence of various shaft parameters on piston wind development is systematically analyzed. The results indicate that the shaft significantly impacts the piston wind. The maximum piston wind speed and ventilation rate in tunnels with ventilation shafts surpass those in tunnels without them. Moreover, shaft location and the cross-sectional area notably affect the maximum piston wind speed, ventilation rate, and airflow in the shaft, whereas shaft height has no significant effect. It is found that a ventilation shaft with a larger cross-sectional area positioned in the middle of the tunnel enhances the performance of piston ventilation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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18 pages, 7945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Fire Protection: Reducing Carbon Footprint with Advanced Coating Technologies

by Antonio Alonso-Jiménez, Pedro M. Alonso and Exabier Hormaza-Polo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7826; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177826 - 3 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1376

Abstract

Metallum Fire-Resistant paint, denoted as MFR henceforth, represents a cutting-edge insulating material with dual functionality as a fireproof solution, presenting substantial advantages in the realm of construction applications. This exposition derives its primary insights from the scholarly contributions documented in publications. The focal [...] Read more.

Metallum Fire-Resistant paint, denoted as MFR henceforth, represents a cutting-edge insulating material with dual functionality as a fireproof solution, presenting substantial advantages in the realm of construction applications. This exposition derives its primary insights from the scholarly contributions documented in publications. The focal point of these investigations includes the assessment of fire hazards associated with polyethylene materials in building structures and the enhancement of mortars in high-temperature environments in tunnels. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified cork-based coating (MFR) compared to traditional coatings in terms of corrosion protection, fire resistance, and thermal insulation properties in construction applications. This evaluation focuses on quantifying the efficacy of MFR by examining key properties, such as adhesion, the reduced thickness required for fire protection, thermal conductivity reduction, and corrosion resistance under extreme environmental conditions. MFR is highly effective in fire prevention for buildings and tunnels, withstanding temperatures over 1000 °C while maintaining structural integrity. A unique aspect of MFR is its use of cork shavings, a typically underutilized byproduct from wine-bottle-stopper production. This innovative not only amplifies MFR’s fire-resistant attributes, but also introduces sustainability and judicious resource utilization into its manufacturing processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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24 pages, 7999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Deformation Control of Road-Deep Foundation Pit Passing under Elevated Subway Bridge

by Hua Peng, Bowen Meng, Sui Tan, Li Zhu and Guan Wang

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(14), 6357; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14146357 - 21 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1302

Abstract

This paper focuses on the application of pile foundation underpinning technology in a deep foundation pit of a subway Viaduct Project in Beijing. The study aims to address the engineering characteristics of the project, including a large number of new piles, a wide [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on the application of pile foundation underpinning technology in a deep foundation pit of a subway Viaduct Project in Beijing. The study aims to address the engineering characteristics of the project, including a large number of new piles, a wide span of underpinning abutment, a long length of deep foundation pit, and a wide range of influences. This research utilizes field monitoring and numerical simulation methods to investigate the pile foundation underpinnings. The impact and management of road-deep foundation pit construction are considered, as well as their combined effect on subway viaducts and track structures. The primary accomplishments are as follows: (1) By analyzing the data from on-site deformation monitoring, it is evident that the pier exhibits maximum vertical deformation and maximum transverse deformation at the same location. The measuring locations are specifically situated on Pier 7# at the pile foundation underpinning. The maximum vertical and transverse deformations of the track are directly proportional to the maximum deformation of the pier. (2) By comparing the numerical simulation results with the field monitoring data, it is observed that although there is some discrepancy between the two, the deformation trend is largely consistent. This suggests that the numerical simulation analysis method is effective in reflecting the deformation of the bridge and track. (3) Through the numerical model and changing the values of the retaining structure parameters, the sensitivity of the pier deformation near the road foundation pit to the retaining structure parameters is systematically analyzed. The sensitivity of the pier deformation to the foundation pit parameters is as follows: the embedded depth insertion ratio of the retaining pile > the diameter of the retaining pile > the pile spacing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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23 pages, 37441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Model Test and Numerical Simulation for Tunnel Leakage-Induced Seepage Erosion in Different Strata

by Qihao Sun, Wouter De Corte, Xian Liu and Luc Taerwe

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3908; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093908 - 3 May 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1468

Abstract

Leakage in underground structures, especially tunnels, may cause seepage erosion in the surrounding soil, which in turn leads to ground subsidence, posing a great threat to urban safety. The current literature mainly focuses on seepage erosion in the sand but lacks a systematic [...] Read more.

Leakage in underground structures, especially tunnels, may cause seepage erosion in the surrounding soil, which in turn leads to ground subsidence, posing a great threat to urban safety. The current literature mainly focuses on seepage erosion in the sand but lacks a systematic study on the development process of seepage erosion induced by tunnel leakage in different strata. To investigate the different seepage erosion modes induced by tunnel leakage in different stratum types, a series of reduced-scale model tests were carried out. A coupled fluid–solid numerical model was further established to analyze the fine-scale characteristics of different seepage erosion modes. The results show that (1) the soil seepage erosion modes can be divided into three categories: no soil cave, unstable soil cave, and stable soil cave; (2) the adopted coupled fluid–solid numerical model based on DEM, which takes into account the degradation of clay during seepage erosion, can effectively simulate the erosion process of soil with different seepage erosion modes; (3) the phenomena of the three erosion modes are different in the process of erosion development; and (4) the micro-mechanisms of the three seepage erosion modes are different, which are manifested in the erosion range, soil arching effect, and displacement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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21 pages, 9956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on the Forced Ventilation Safety during the Construction of a Large-Slope V-Shaped Tunnel

by Linghong Yi, Xiaoni Wang and Yongjiang Shen

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2924; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072924 - 29 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1141

Abstract

The special large-slope V-shaped structure of underwater tunnels changes the ventilation characteristics during tunnel construction, making the traditional experience limited. Therefore, it is urgent to study the influence of the special structure on the safety of the air environment during construction. In this [...] Read more.

The special large-slope V-shaped structure of underwater tunnels changes the ventilation characteristics during tunnel construction, making the traditional experience limited. Therefore, it is urgent to study the influence of the special structure on the safety of the air environment during construction. In this paper, a series of small-scale experiments were conducted to investigate the ventilation characteristics of V-shaped tunnels. The coupled effects of ventilation parameters (distance of duct outlet from working face

L_{0}

, air velocity at the duct outlet

u_{0}

) and structural characteristics (digging length

L_{d}

, slope of the uphill section

θ

) were considered. The extreme slope of the V-shaped tunnel of 8% was considered. The flow field and pollutant transport law were determined by using CO as a tracer in the experiments. The results show that

u_{0}

has a positive impact on the air return velocity, while

L_{d}

has a negative impact, and neither of the other two factors has a significant effect. The transport characteristics of CO in V-shaped tunnels differ from those in flat tunnels, with the former tending to cause unconventional areas of high pollutant concentrations in the horizontal sections. Furthermore, the correlations between CO concentration and distance, ventilation time, and the influence factors discussed in this paper are derived from the experimental results. The conclusions provide guidance for the construction of V-shaped tunnels to prevent air pollution in the construction environment and to improve the working conditions of laborers. Additionally, it can also enrich the ventilation experience in tunnel construction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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17 pages, 8154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Water Inrush Characteristics of Hard Rock Tunnel Crossing Heterogeneous Faults

by Guoxu Xin, Bo Wang, Haozhang Zheng, Linfeng Zeng and Xinxin Yang

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 2536; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14062536 - 17 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1480

Abstract

Fault water inflow is one of the most severe disasters that can occur during the construction of hard and brittle rock tunnels. These tunnels traverse brittle fault breccia zones comprising two key components: a damage zone dominated by low-strain fractures and an internally [...] Read more.

Fault water inflow is one of the most severe disasters that can occur during the construction of hard and brittle rock tunnels. These tunnels traverse brittle fault breccia zones comprising two key components: a damage zone dominated by low-strain fractures and an internally nested high-strain zone known as the fault core. Structural heterogeneity influences the mechanical and hydraulic properties within fault breccia zones, thereby affecting the evolving characteristics of water inflow in hard rock faulting. Based on the hydraulic characteristics within hard rock fault zones, this paper presents a generalized dual-porosity fluid-solid coupling water inflow model. The model is utilized to investigate the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of water pressure, inflow velocity, and water volume during tunneling through heterogeneous fault zones in hard rock. Research findings indicate that when tunnels pass through the damage zones, water inrush velocity is high, yet the water volume is low, and both decrease rapidly over time. Conversely, within the core regions of faults, water inflow velocity is low, yet the water volume is high, and both remain relatively stable over time. Simulation results closely align with the water inflow data from China’s largest cross-section tunnel, the Tiantai Mountain Tunnel, thus validating the accuracy of the evolutionary model proposed in this paper. These findings offer a new perspective for devising effective prevention strategies for water inflow from heterogeneous faults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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22 pages, 15149 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Ground Surcharge Effects on Deformation Characteristics in Shield Tunnel Linings

by Lixin Wei, Chunshan Yang, Weijie Chen, Liying Liu and Dong Su

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 2328; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14062328 - 10 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1262

Abstract

To investigate the deformation characteristics of shield tunnel linings under ground surcharge, finite element software was employed to create a detailed three-dimensional model of the staggered assembly of the shield tunnel lining. This model includes components such as precast concrete segments, reinforcements, and [...] Read more.

To investigate the deformation characteristics of shield tunnel linings under ground surcharge, finite element software was employed to create a detailed three-dimensional model of the staggered assembly of the shield tunnel lining. This model includes components such as precast concrete segments, reinforcements, and joints (comprising bent bolts, washers, and bolt sleeves). Additionally, the model accounts for interface frictions between segments and the interactions between different rings. The reliability of the numerical model was verified based on the results of a full-scale model test. Additionally, the model accounts for interface frictions between segments and the interactions between different rings. Changes in tunnel convergence, joint tensioning, bolt stresses, reinforcement stresses, and concrete crack development were systematically analyzed. The results indicate the following: (1) the deformation mode of the lining structure under ground surcharge resembles a “transverse ellipse”. Joints located near the haunch opened along the outer arc, while those near the vault and bottom opened along the inner arc. The restraining effect of the bolts on joints opening in the inner arc was greater than that on the outer arc. Notably, when the opening of the inner arc reached 4.9 mm, the bolt stress escalated to the yield strength of 640 Mpa. (2) Under larger loads, the lining structure’s joints are susceptible to greater deformation, resulting in the tensile yielding of local reinforcement within these joints. (3) Cracks predominantly occur near the haunch, vault, and bottom of the lining structure, with the central angle of crack distribution ranging between 70° and 85°. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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16 pages, 8123 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction Mechanical Characteristics of TBM Pilot and Enlargement Method for Ventilation Tunnel of Wuhai Pumped Storage Power Station

by Chuanjun Fan, Jianmin Qin and Guixuan Wang

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 1829; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14051829 - 23 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1222

Abstract

Investigating the construction mechanics of a ventilation tunnel using the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) pilot and enlargement method with reliable rock mechanics parameters ensures the safety of on-site excavation operations. Leveraging the construction project of the ventilation tunnel at the Wuhai Pumped Storage [...] Read more.

Investigating the construction mechanics of a ventilation tunnel using the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) pilot and enlargement method with reliable rock mechanics parameters ensures the safety of on-site excavation operations. Leveraging the construction project of the ventilation tunnel at the Wuhai Pumped Storage Power Station, TGP sidewall forecasting was employed to explore the geological conditions within a 50 m range of the tunnel’s side. A systematic study of the construction mechanics of the TBM pilot and enlargement method was conducted, along with corresponding construction recommendations and engineering applications. This research indicates that sidewall forecasting can supplement the deficiencies in geological exploration reports, with excavation revealing conditions consistent with the forecast. Deformation at the interface, including the arch crown and sidewall, mainly concentrates during the construction phase from the completion of full-section excavation to the beginning of expansion. As the working face advances, the upper rock mass within the ventilation tunnel outline experiences tension, with stress concentration in the shoulder and bottom corner rock masses. The plastic zone before expansion primarily concentrates within the ventilation tunnel outline, shifting to the sidewall after expansion, with the left shoulder’s plastic zone depth slightly exceeding that of the right. The proposed method effectively ensures construction safety, and the research findings have valuable implications for similar projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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16 pages, 6230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Dynamic Mechanical Properties and Energy Dissipation of Water-Saturated Fissured Sandstone Specimens

by Qi Ping, Shijia Sun, Xiangyang Li, Shiwei Wu, Yijie Xu, Jing Hu and Wei Hu

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14041368 - 7 Feb 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1251

Abstract

To investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of water-saturated fissure rock at different strain rates, prefabricated sandstone specimens with a 45° dip angle were treated with water saturation and the impact compression test was performed with a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) test device [...] Read more.

To investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of water-saturated fissure rock at different strain rates, prefabricated sandstone specimens with a 45° dip angle were treated with water saturation and the impact compression test was performed with a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) test device at different impact pressures. The results show that the clusters of dynamic stress–strain curves of water-saturated and natural sandstone specimens with a 45° dip angle of prefabricated fissures are basically similar under different impact air pressures. A distinct strain rate effect was observed for dynamic strain and dynamic compressive strength, both of which increased with increasing strain rate. From the failure pattern of the specimen, it can be seen that cracks appeared from the tip of the prefabricated fissure under axial stress, spreading to both ends and forming wing cracks and anti-wing cracks associated with shear cracks. As the strain rate increased, the energy dissipation density of the specimen gradually increased, and the macroscopic cracks cross-expanded with each other. The fracture form of the specimen showed a small block distribution, and the average particle size of the specimen gradually decreased. The specimen crushing energy dissipation density was negatively correlated with fracture size, reflecting a certain rate correlation. The sandstone fragments’ fractal dimension increases with the increase in crushing energy dissipation density, and the fractal dimension may be applied as a quantitative index to characterize sandstone crushing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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Review

Jump to: Research

25 pages, 3298 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Development of the Pipe Jacking Guidance Technology

by Di Qiu, Lu Wang, Yutong Zu and Yin Qing

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15042137 - 18 Feb 2025

Viewed by 562

Abstract

Pipe jacking is one of the most important construction methods in trenchless technology. Pipe jacking guidance technology acquires the jacking route by collecting the attitude and position information of the pipe jacking machine. It ensures that the deviation between the jacking route and [...] Read more.

Pipe jacking is one of the most important construction methods in trenchless technology. Pipe jacking guidance technology acquires the jacking route by collecting the attitude and position information of the pipe jacking machine. It ensures that the deviation between the jacking route and the route designed in the engineering drawings during the construction is kept within the error range and prevents the damage to other facilities caused by the deviation of the construction route. It improves the construction efficiency and ensures the precision and safety of pipeline laying. In this paper, the basic principle and working mode of the pipe jacking guidance system are sorted out, and the current technical means are classified and organized. A systematic overview of the research on pipe jacking guidance methods is given, the development trend of pipe jacking guidance systems towards automation, intelligence and multi-source data fusion are discussed, and the challenges faced by pipe jacking guidance systems in complex scenarios are elaborated. This is to provide guidance and reference for the research and practice in related fields and to promote the further innovation and application of pipe jacking guidance technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Engineering)

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